Vitalzym Systemic Enzymes FAQ Page

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Q. Enzymes: What are enzymes?
A. Enzymes are found in every cell of every living plant and animal, including humans. Enzymes are biocatalysts; which means that they either begin a reaction or cause a reaction to speed up. Without enzymes life would not exist.

Q. How do enzymes work?
A. Enzymes work by virtue of their shape. An enzyme molecule can be compared, in shape at least, to many short strings of pearls (amino acids) strung together. This long string folds in on itself as certain sequences of amino acids (pearls) are more attracted to each other than to other sequences, thus giving the enzymes a specific shape. At one point on the surface of this string of pearls there exists something, which looks like a keyhole. This is called the "active site" on the enzyme. When matched with its specific coenzyme (a vitamin, mineral, or trace element) this "lock" has the exact inverse contour of the "key" which is contained in the molecule of the enzyme's "substrate" (the molecule that the enzyme wants to transform into a different molecule). When the substrate appears, it inserts the "key" into the "lock." The molecular structure of the substrate is transformed into a different molecular structure and both enzyme and the newly transformed molecule go on their merry ways.

Q. What is a digestive enzyme?
A. A digestive enzyme (like OmegaZyme from Garden of Life) breaks down the proteins, fats and carbohydrates in food during the digestive process allowing the body to better utilize the food you eat. Digestion begins in the mouth, continues on in the stomach, and is completed in the small intestine.

Q. What is a systemic enzyme?
A. Systemic enzymes (like Vitalzym and VitalzymXe from World Nutrition), work at the organ and cellular levels to fight inflammation and chronic disorders. Some of these enzymes are responsible for different bodily functions, such as respiration, vision, growth, reproductions, and the storage and release of energy. This is why you may experience increased energy when taking enzymes. There have been approximately 3,000 enzymes in the human body that have been identified so far.

Q. What is systemic enzyme therapy?
A. Systemic enzyme therapy is utilizing enzyme supplementation to increase the enzymes throughout your body to assist in restoring the body to health.

Q. Is there research regarding the use of systemic enzyme therapy?
A. Systemic enzymes have a 50 year history of use in orthodox medicine in Germany, Central Europe, and Japan where over 200 peered reviewed studies have been done, showing not only absorption, but also therapeutic action in humans and livestock.

Q. What is a proteolytic enzyme?
A. The proteolytic enzyme digests protein. Some examples of proteolytic enzymes are protease, serrapeptase, bromelain, and papain. (All contained in Vitalzym & Vitalzym Cardio)

Q. What is a lipase enzyme?
A. Lipase digests fat. It is an enzyme secreted in the digestive tract that catalyzes the breakdown of fats into individual fatty acids that can be absorbed into the bloodstream.

Q. What is an amylase enzyme?
A. A group of proteins found in saliva and pancreatic juice and parts of plants, Amylase digests carbohydrates and helps convert starch to sugar.

Q. What is bromelain?
A. An enzyme found in pineapples that breaks down other proteins, such as collagen.

Q. What is papain?
A. A proteolytic enzyme obtained from unripe papaya.

Q. What else are enzymes used for?
A. Enzymes are widely used in the food industry. Enzymes are also essential in the manufacture of beer.

Q. Are enzymes considered "anti-inflammatory drugs"?
A. Proteolytic Enzymes are considered anti-inflammatory agents.

Q. What prevents the enzymes from digesting our inner organs and tissues?
A. The body has a protective mechanism that prevents it from digesting itself. This mechanism works by our bodies ability to tag “self proteins” differently from “foreign proteins” that are not part of our biological make-up so it can distinguish them from each other.

Q. How long do oral enzymes last within the body?
A. Oral enzymes, such as those in Vitalzym are rapidly eliminated from the body and are undetectable in the blood after 24 to 48 hours.

Q. What enzymes are in the Vitalyzm formula?
A. Vitalzym is a proprietary blend of systemic enzymes including, protease, bromelain, serrapeptase, amylase, lipase, and papain.

Q. What is serrapeptase and where does it come from?
A. Also known as Serratia peptidase; a proteolytic enzyme isolated from the non-pathogenic enterobacteria Serratia E15. Serrapeptase has been shown to be one of the most fibrinolytic enzymes available today. Serrapeptase is a powerful proteolytic enzyme. In Japan, Takada sells serrapeptase as a registered anti-inflammatory medicine under the product name Dazen. Serrapeptase is laboratory grown. This enzyme is an important factor in Vitalyzm.

Q. Do other countries recognize the benefits of Serrapeptase?
A. Yes, European and Asian physicians are using this naturally occurring enzyme as a natural anti-inflammatory and pain reducer and an alternative to salicylates (aspirin), ibuprophen, and other NSAID’s (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). They have also studied systemic enzyme therapy for almost 5 decades.

Q. How does World Nutrition grow their enzymes? Is the process ecologically safe? Does the process use any chemicals?
A. The enzymes in Vitalzym come from two sources; the fruit enzymes along with the Amla and Rutin are from fruit grown in organic plantations, and the protease and serrapeptase is lab grown in a protein (fungus) medium. The enzymes are then extracted from the medium so that not a trace of fungus is left on the enzyme and the purity is assured.

Q. Are the enzymes in Vitalzym sensitive to extreme heat conditions?
A. Yes. However, the enzymes are heat stable to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Long term exposure of temperatures above this may damage the enzymes.

Q. Can the enzymes be damaged during shipment?
A. The temperature in carrier vehicles should rarely, if ever exceed 140 degrees. In fact, the manufacturer, World Nutrition, performs rigorous quality control tests to insure the stability of Vitalyzm. For example, they ship the product via ground to various parts of the country in all weather conditions to an un-established address. This allows the package to have traveled a long journey prior to its return. Once returned, product quality tests are performed and as of yet, there have not been any problems with damage from heat exposure.

Q. Is Vitalzym a prescription medication?
A. No, Vitalzym is considered a natural dietary supplement

Q. Why is it important to drink water when taking Vitalzym for systemic therapy?
A. One reason is to be sure the enzymes get into the intestinal tract where they will be transported by the blood to needed areas of the body. The other reason is that some enzymes need water to activate them. Additionally, as one goes through the cleansing phase toxins are released; drinking plenty of water helps the body rid itself of these toxins via the bowels and kidneys which will help reduce effects from detoxifying.

Q. Why do different dosage levels work for different people?
A. Factors such as weight, age, sex, body metabolism, health status, lifestyle, and diet can all influence what dosage will be considered an “activation dose” for each individual.

Q. Is it safe to take high doses of Vitalzym?
A. Do not worry that you will overdose taking Vitalzym. Enzymes do not have toxicity levels like many medications, vitamins, or minerals. Nor do they get stored in the body where they can become toxic.

Q. Why is it suggested to take Vitalzym in high dosages?
A. Enzyme molecules are very large so it is difficult to pack a sufficient amount in one capsule.

Q. Is there a history regarding the safe use of enzymes?
A. Yes, there is recorded information on the safety of using digestive enzymes that dates back to the early 1900’s. Systemic enzyme research has been conducted in Europe and Asia for almost 50 years and more recently in Japan and the United States.

Q. What are some benefits I can expect from taking Vitalzym?
A. Vitalzym will cleanse the blood, liver, and the colon of debris. It can also help remove excess fibrin from the kidneys, other organs, muscles, and tissues. Vitalzym is a natural anti-inflammatory, helps to modulate the immune system, kill candida yeast, and fight viruses and bacteria.

Q. How long before Vitalzym takes effect?
A. How quickly one responds just depends upon an individuals state of health, lifestyle, and diet. It may also depend on the individual's physiological make-up, as everyone is different. Testimonials from some of our customers reported positive effects ranging from 3 days to 2 weeks. Taking the right activation dosage is critical to the success of the product.

Q. Are there any SIDE EFFECTS at all with these products?
A. We currently have no documented evidence of any adverse side effects based on the use of Vitalzym. You should not take this product without the consent of your physician if you are currently taking anti-coagulants, commonly known as blood thinners, such as Coumadin, Heparin and Plavix.

Q. Will I notice any changes in my urine?
A. Fibrin appears in urine as foamy white fibers. If there is a build up of fibrin in the kidneys, you may notice this temporary change. Although, this is not something everyone experiences.

Q. Why is it important to take Vitalzym on an empty stomach?
A. When taken between meals on an empty stomach, the enzymes enter the intestinal tract where they are more readily absorbed into the blood stream to assist various bodily systems in fighting inflammation, as well as acute and chronic diseases. If you were to take them with food, they would act as digestive enzymes that breakdown food in the stomach.

Q. I find it hard to have an empty stomach. Is there another way I can take Vitalzym?
A. If taking Vitalyzm an hour before meals is not convenient, you may take your dose one hour after eating. Many customers find this to be helpful.

Q. It is okay to take Vitalzym with hot beverages such as tea?
A. No, enzymes are heat sensitive. Beverages should be at least room temperature.

Q. Are there any compatibility issues with Vitamins and Minerals?
A. Vitamins and minerals are cofactors to enzymes; therefore, they are needed in the body for the enzymes to have their full effect. Thus, systemic enzyme use enhances the effect of other supplementation programs. However, it is best to take vitamins and minerals with food and Vitalzym separately on an empty stomach.

Q. Are there any compatibility issues with any prescribed drugs?
A. Yes. Customers using anti-coagulants or blood thinners, such as Coumadin, Heparin and Plavix, should not use Vitalzym without the consent of their physician, as the enzymes can enhance the effects of the blood thinning medications, making them stronger. It is always best to consult with your doctor if you are taking any prescription medications and would like to incorporate nutritional supplements to your regimen.

Q. Are there compatibility issues with protein based dietary supplements?
A. Any supplement that has a protein base should be taken at a different time than when you take Vitalzym so that the enzymes can quickly make it through the gastric juices so they can be absorbed into the blood stream.

Q. Can I take herbs with Vitalyzm?
A. Yes; however, Vitalzym may increase the effectiveness of herbal supplements. If you are taking herbs in therapeutic doses, you may want to consult with your health care professional.

Q. Can I still take my other supplements?
A. In general, you can still take your other natural dietary supplements. However, some supplements such as fish and borage oil, gingko biloba, garlic, feverfew, and Vitamin E can help thin the blood. Please take this into consideration when using natural blood thinners in combination with Vitalzym.

Q. How can Vitalzym help with auto-immune disorders?
A. Vitalzym can help tone down an over-active immune system by reducing the antibodies that attack it. If the immune system is under-active, Vitalzym/ can help increase killer cell activity and restore balance.

Q. Can Vitalzym help with diabetes?
A. Vitalzym can help with pancreatic function; therefore it may be beneficial for diabetics. If you are diabetic, please call us at: 1-800-841-4248 because we have another product called Ketsumeisei that has been proven by MULTIPLE testimonies to help with Type I and II diabetes!

Q. Can Vitalyzm help with herniated disks?
A. Vitalzym will help with the pain and inflammation, but one may need manual therapy for the discs.

Q. Can Vitalzym help with varicose veins?
A. Vitalzym may be helpful because it can help clear the microcirculatory system.

Q. Can Vitalzym help with scar tissue?
A. Yes, scar tissue is made up of fibrin and Vitalzym can dissolve and eat up fibrin.

Q. What is fibrin?
A. Fibrin is an insoluble protein the body produces in response to bleeding or inflammation. Excess fibrin in the body leads to fibrosis conditions, such as uterine fibroids, fibrocystic breasts, endometriosis, pulmonary fibrosis, and cystic fibrosis, to name a few. According to Scripps Research Institute, “It is generally assumed that the persistence of fibrin in the extra cellular matrix (connective tissue) promotes fibrosis, and that the extent of fibrosis is limited by proteinases (enzymes) that remove the fibrin. Fibrotic disease occurs when normal control of this process is compromised and excess fibrous material accumulates in the tissues.”

Q. How does Vitalzym help to regulate the blood?
A. Vitalzym can help reduce platelet aggregation, excess fibrin, and debris in the blood that can cause it to become thickened. Talk to your doctor before taking Vitalyzm if you are on prescription blood thinners.

Q. Can Vitalzym OVERLY thin the blood?
A. In general, it will not thin the blood beyond what is normal for an individual, such as aspirin and coumadin. However, it may be more blood thinning for some, than others.

Q. When should I stop using Vitalzym prior to having surgery?
A. It is suggested to stop taking Vitalzym 2 weeks before surgery. If you have emergency surgery, just tell the doctors that you were on health supplements that were natural blood thinners.

Q. How long should I wait to take Vitalzym after surgery?
A. Generally, when all internal and external bleeding has stopped and your doctor tells you it is ok to begin taking aspirin. However, please consult with your physician to determine when the time would be right for you personally. Vitalzym SHOULD take the place of something like Aspirin and much safer!

Q. Is Vitalzym helpful as a pain reducer?
A. Yes, other than reducing inflammation, serrapeptase’s most profound benefit is reducing pain, due to its ability to block the release of pain-inducing amines from inflamed tissues.

Q. Will Vitalzym work for menstrual cramps?
A. The enzymes in Vitalzym are known for their anti-inflammatory activity. Therefore, it may help with the pain and inflammation associated with smooth muscle cramping. You can also take magnesium citrate, which helps ease smooth muscle contractions.

Q. Does taking magnesium and zinc compliment the use of Vitalzym?
A. Yes, magnesium activates over 2600 enzymes and zinc activates over 600 enzymes. Vitamins, minerals, and enzymes all work together to help support the bodies metabolic functions. People who are estrogen dominant are often low in these minerals.

Q. Does Vitalyzm have an enteric coating?
A. Yes, the capsule itself is enteric coated.

Q. What does enteric coated mean?
A. An enteric coating is a barrier applied to some oral dietary supplements that prevent the acidic environment of the stomach from destroying nutrients such as enzymes and probiotics before they reach the small intestine.

Q. Is Vitalzym FDA approved?
A. The FDA does not “approve” nutritional supplements. Instead, they have assigned DSHEA (Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act) to “regulate” them for proper label information and to make sure they are produced in proper manufacturing facilities. They are also responsible for investigating any supplements that may have caused a problem for an individual(s).

Q. Should I tell my doctor that I am taking Vitalzym?
A. Yes, especially if you are taking prescription medications. It may be best to print out the ingredients page on our website to show him/her so they can see what it contains.

Q. Why didn’t my doctor suggest Vitalzym?
A. Many doctors have very limited education if any regarding nutrition and the use of dietary supplements. Therefore, they often do not feel comfortable making recommendations. However, more and more doctors and pharmacists are inquiring about the benefits of enzyme therapy and incorporating them into their protocols.

Q. Is Vitalzym something I can take indefinitely for general well being?
A. Yes, enzymes help keep the bodily processes in check. You can take 1 cap, 3 times daily on an empty stomach for general maintenance. If you are attempting to keep a particular condition in check, you can take 6 to 12 capsules daily in divided doses.

Q. Who should not take Vitalzym?
A. Those with a uterine fibroid condition who are pregnant or trying to conceive, hemophiliacs, those with an ulcer, and those taking prescription blood thinners, as enzymes can increase the effectiveness of prescription coagulants like Coumadin, Heparin, or Plavix.

Q. Can I take Vitalzym if I am breastfeeding?
A. Check with your doctor before taking any dietary supplement if pregnant, attempting to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Q. Can I take Vitalzym if I am allergic to citrus?
A. If you are allergic to citrus and are not sure if you can take Vitalzym, it would be best to start with a small bottle to determine if you will have a reaction. Vitalzym contains bromelain from pineapples, papain from papayas, rutin (a bioflavonoid) from citrus, and Amla from a fruit high in Vitamin C.

Q. Does weather affect the quality of Vitalyzm?
A. Exposure to heat over 150 degrees for an extended period of time can destroy the enzymes. Store your Vitalzym in a cool, dry place, with the lid tightly closed. Enzymes are freeze dried so there is no problem if they get frozen or are exposed to cold temperatures.

Q. Does Vitalzym need to be kept in the refrigerator?
A. No, a cool dry place is fine. An opened bottle in the refrigerator can cause moisture to build up and affect the enzymes activity levels.

Q. How does Vitalzym compare with other enzyme formulas that contain Nattokinase?
A. Nattokinase is an enzyme that is used in some cardiovascular formulas such as Vitalzym Cardio.It is not suggested to take more than 1 capsule, 3 times daily without strict supervision from a medical provider. Regular Vitalzym can be taken safely in much higher doses than 3 caps per day. However, we do suggest talking with your health care professional if you have personal concerns about taking higher doses.

Q. How do I know if I need Vitalzym Cardio or just Vitalzym?
A Vitalzym Cardio is a cardiovascular & heart formula. Due to the nattokinase ingredient, the suggested dose is one capsule three times a day. If you have a condition in which you need to take a higher dosage of serrapeptase (for example; pain, fibroid tumors, or scar tissue) taking Vitalzym, also, would be the smartest choice, because you need a LOT of serrapeptase (in Vitalzym) for pain, inflammation, scar tissue & your immune system! And remember, your bottle of Vitalzym Cardio will last over 3 months, so you won't need a bottle each month, making it more affordable. I have taken them together over 12 years now!

Q. Can I take Vitalzym at the same time as my Vitalzym Cardio?
A. Yes, you may take them at the same time on an empty stomach - one hour away from food and medicine.

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